Integrity, Inc.

Integrity, Inc. was established in 1974 as a network of gay and lesbian Episcopalians, their families, and allies. Sparked by Louie Crew’s newsletter Integrity Forum, the first chapter formed in Chicago under James Wickliff, followed by the inaugural national convention in 1975 at the Cathedral of St. James, Chicago. Over time, the organization grew to over 70 chapters across the U.S. and Canada.

Integrity made a significant institutional impact at the Episcopal Church’s 1976 General Convention in Minneapolis, most notably contributing to the passage of resolution A069, affirming the full dignity and inclusion of homosexual persons. That same year, the Rev. Malcolm Boyd publicly came out during Integrity’s national convention in San Francisco. In 1977, Ellen Marie Barrett, a former co-president, was ordained by Bishop Paul Moore, Jr., marking a milestone in LGBTQ+ inclusion in the ordained priesthood.

Integrity fostered ecumenical relationships with organizations such as Dignity (Catholic), Lutherans Concerned, and the Metropolitan Community Church. Its national structure, driven largely by lay volunteers, coordinated local chapter activities and organized annual conventions. Advocacy efforts centered on influencing policy decisions at The Episcopal Church’s General Conventions. The Fund for Integrity, Inc., established in 1981, supported its mission financially. The organization formally dissolved in 2022.